Mumbai: In a striking statement made from Indian soil, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Friday warned Pakistan against “playing games” with Afghanistan, cautioning Islamabad of serious consequences if provocations continue along the border.
Speaking in New Delhi during his first official visit to India as the top diplomat of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, Muttaqi invoked both the United Kingdom and the United States to underscore his point.
“Pakistan should stop playing games with Afghanistan. Don’t provoke Afghanistan too much—if you do, ask the British once; if you ask the Americans, they’ll tell you that playing such games with Afghanistan is not good. We want a diplomatic path,” Muttaqi said.
Tensions Escalate Along the Afghanistan–Pakistan Border
Muttaqi’s comments come amid rising cross-border tensions between Kabul and Islamabad, marked by recent airstrikes and fire exchanges along the Durand Line. Both nations have accused each other of harbouring militants and violating territorial sovereignty, deepening the rift since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.
The Taliban leadership has consistently accused Pakistan of interfering in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, while Islamabad blames Kabul for providing shelter to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has carried out multiple attacks on Pakistani soil.
Amir Khan Muttaqi’s India Visit: Diplomatic Outreach and Development Push
Despite his tough tone on Pakistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India carried a markedly cooperative and conciliatory agenda. He met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, where both sides announced a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening India-Afghanistan relations.
In a significant development, Jaishankar announced that India will upgrade its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged Embassy, signaling a new phase of engagement with Afghanistan despite the absence of formal diplomatic recognition of the Taliban government.
“India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan. To enhance that, I am pleased to announce the upgrading of India’s technical mission in Kabul to the status of Embassy of India,” Jaishankar said.
India-Afghanistan Cooperation: Health, Education, and Connectivity
Both ministers unveiled a broad development and humanitarian package, including:
- Six new infrastructure and development projects
- A gift of 20 ambulances
- MRI and CT scan machines, vaccines, and cancer medicines for Afghan hospitals
Reaffirming India’s humanitarian commitment, Jaishankar added, “Your visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring friendship between India and Afghanistan.”
The talks also included agreements to resume direct flights between Kabul and New Delhi, expand educational scholarships for Afghan students, and boost cultural exchanges. Jaishankar lauded Afghan athletes, noting, “The emergence of Afghan cricket talent is truly impressive.”
Joint Stand Against Cross-Border Terrorism
In a notable alignment, both sides pledged to coordinate on counterterrorism, recognising the shared threat of cross-border terrorism impacting both nations.
Jaishankar also appreciated Kabul’s “sensitivity toward India’s security concerns”, thanking Muttaqi for Afghanistan’s expression of solidarity following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
The two nations agreed to continue humanitarian collaboration, including reconstruction aid in earthquake-hit regions and ongoing food assistance programs.
A Strategic Balancing Act
Muttaqi’s visit marks a significant diplomatic milestone — showcasing Afghanistan’s outreach beyond Pakistan and China while reaffirming India’s renewed engagement in the region.
Analysts say the Taliban’s tough message to Pakistan and warm tone toward India reflects Kabul’s growing assertion of sovereignty and its desire to rebalance regional dynamics.
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